(Yicai Global) Jan. 26 -- China's mainland stock markets opened lower this morning, dragged down by shares in the defense sector.

The Shanghai Composite Index began 0.37 percent lower at 3,610.97. The Shenzhen Component Index was at 15,637.39, down 0.46 percent. The ChiNext Price Index, which tracks growth enterprises in Shenzhen, slid 0.59 percent to 3,335.44.

The defense sector dropped 1 percent while Bestway Marine & Energy Technology [SHE:300008] plunged 20 percent to CNY4.8 (74 US dollar cents) after the Shanghai-based firm said that it has received a letter from China's main securities regulator in suspicion of breaking the law.

Editor: Emmi Laine